Parents, Children, and Shared Dental Fear

April is observed as National Anxiety Month in America, and a study conducted by Delta Dental has revealed interesting evidence that dental fear is a learned behavior. According to Delta’s nationwide poll, about half of participating parents with kids aged 12 and under are afraid of the dentist. The number of kids who share the dental phobia matches perfectly. Experts believe that this demonstrates children’s ability to pick up on their parents’ dental fear and mirror it. To avoid instilling dread in the minds of young dental patients, parents should stay calm during dental appointments, and only present the topic in a positive light.

Kids’ Fear of Dentist

At least 40 percent of children have some degree of dental phobia that makes their dental visits frightening and uncomfortable. Parents polled by Delta Dental reported that the threat of pain is the most common source of anxiety among kids. Among lesser fears were not liking the dentist and being told they would need more dental work. To help allay dental fears, parents should start exposing their kids to dental care early, so they can build relationships with their dentists. A baby’s first dental appointment should be made no later than his or her first birthday. Informing the dentist of a child’s anxiety before the visit and playing dentist at home can also help lessen stress.

Adult Dental Fear

Parents can reduce the chances of passing along their fear of dentist appointments by managing their own anxiety. Talking to the dentist about a dental phobia or seeking a dentist who specializes in treating anxious patients can be helpful. Other ways to reduce dental fear include taking a friend to dental appointments, making appointments for first thing in the morning, and listening to music during treatment. Severe dental phobia in adults requires more intensive management such as sedation dentistry and professional anxiety treatment.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in Mishawaka, call The Dental Center of Mishawaka today at (574) 285-0460 or make an appointment.

The Dental Center offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Mishawaka. With 4 affiliated practices throughout Indiana, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At The Dental Center of Mishawaka, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at The Dental Center of Mishawaka.

Friendly staff and Shannon is very thorough. I trust her with taking the best care of my mouth and teeth!

Michelle M.

the dentist keizer i believe was his name who has taken over all my dental work since i was about 20 has been amazing. super friendly, explains things so i fully understand, and even goes above and […]

Alyssa W.

Staff is personal and friendly.

Lucy S.

If you need a dentist and are scared due to past experiences don’t worry, go to the dental center of Mishawaka and not only will your teeth look good and will show them off with a smile but […]

George K.

I love going to see Brooke Henry. She always does a great job on my cleanings and always super friendly!

Angela L.

Friendly, caring , short wait time, thorough

Maurshane H.

Very patient friendly, not many people like going to the dentist but everyone in the office makes it a pleasurable experience.

Debbie S.

Took my 5-year-old to get cavities filled, he actually fell asleep! I got to stay with him the whole time. The staff was amazing, I would highly recommend this office.

Angela F.

The dental assistant and the dentist are both so great with my son. He’s 3 1/2 and has been going to them since he was 1 and he loves going to the dentist.

Austin S.

Because the office has taken care of me

Maurice B.

I always get great service at the Mishawaka office and the staff is very friendly

My dad and I love it here!! They were really good with him during his appointment to get an extraction and are all about saving teeth. Marci, the assistant and Dr. Keiser are amazing and we both have […]

MissSpiderbite T.

Great with my kids during their work and mine

Erika R.

Really nice staff and they did great work!! Dr Kaiser (not sure on spelling) extracted two of my son’s teeth without my son making a peep!!!

We accept most insurance plans and will be happy to help you understand the coverage that you have. We will do our best to see that you receive your maximum insurance benefits for all covered services.

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